Throughout America’s history, African American clergy have played a leading role in advocating for working people.In fact, the tenets of the labor movement, equality, respect, justice and dignity, are also principles found in every major faith.

The close relationship between the faith community and labor makes perfect sense, according to the Rev. W. Monroe Campbell, senior pastor of Mount Gilead Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles.

“The faith community and labor share the same constituency. The people who are our parishioners are the same people who are members of the labor movement’s unions. The function is different, but we have a common identity.The people in the pew are the same people going to work and dealing with employee issues,” he explained.

“The church advocates for the good and well-being of people undergirded by their economic situation.Within our community, so often they are mistreated, so you are trying to ensure the best treatment by the institution through advocacy with the union.

Campbell noted that his approach towards labor parallels his ministerial responsibilities.“As a pastor, I am an under-shepherd, which means looking out for the welfare of the people.

“By virtue of my commitment to Jesus Christ, I am compelled to press for the best interests of the congregation and the community.Those who have faired best in our community are union members,” said Campbell, who worked closely with UNITE Here Local 11 to establish a training program for African Americans in the hospitality industry.

Expressing similar thoughts, the Rev. William Smart, president and CEO of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Southern California, shared that social justice and economics are factors that influence the faith community’s support of labor movement.

“All religions have a tenet of social justice.A person is expected to get a good wage. In a religious sense, we fight for that.In a social stance, we feel it’s the right thing to do.We help people get out of unemployment to improve their lives.We fight for middle-class jobs so people can send their children to college,” said Smart.

“Also, there is the economic factor.If a pastor is involved and their members are employed, it increases the tax base and the tithing base.So, we fight for our members to get better jobs through labor.It helps people increase their wellbeing.We work with the labor movement to ensure that more African Americans get into the workforce.”

The Rev. Donald L. Wilson, pastor of True Way Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles and executive board member of UNITE Here Local 11, worked more than 30 years as a professional chef, including several years at the Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles.

Speaking with passion, he declared, “The faith community must support the labor community because, in fact, they go hand-in-hand. Pastors [must be] out there fighting for common working people who are also members of our congregations,” said Wilson.

“In my church, we have the ‘Want A Job Ministry’ and if I can get my people jobs, the community will be better off.So faith and labor should have a relationship.Some pastors don’t get it, but they need to be involved in the labor movement.”

Strong faith and a passion for music drive the success of 21:03 in the gospel music industry.The duo, comprised of Torrence Greene and Evin Martin, are celebrating their 12th year together and show no signs of slowing down.

Their music, which proclaims salvation in Christ, is wrapped in an urban, contemporary sound delivered on popular singles such as ‘I’m Still Here,’ ‘Brand New Day,’ and ‘A Friend.’Not surprisingly, they have a huge contingent of fans, both churched and unchurched, who are inspired and uplifted by their songs.

“We want our music to be a positive alternative to the music out here that may not be the most holy.We want to be able to reach those people who may not necessarily come to church or have a desire to go to a church concert,” said Greene

“We’re getting ready to release our fourth album entitled, ‘Outsiders,’ on March 24.The message of the album is being in the world, but not of it, remaining true to who we are.I would hope that people would remember that is what we set out to do, to encourage everybody especially the younger generation of believers, to be bold, to shine in your life for God,” added Martin.

Both Greene and Martin agree that their faith in God has been present throughout their lives and became even stronger since being in the music industry.

“I always had a passion for music and found out when I was 10 years old, that I had a voice and I joined the choir,” said Greene.

Martin recalled, “Faith and a relationship with God have always been important in my life.At first, it was the faith of my parents.But, as [you] grow up and experience things, that faith becomes real and has substance.

“I call them ‘God moments,’ those moments in your life where it couldn’t have been anything but something supernatural and miraculous.I’ve had those experiences in my life and it has absolutely strengthened me.”

Reviewing memorable moments in the career of 21:03, Greene said for him, it was the group’s appearance on BET’s “Celebration of Gospel” in 2008.

“I always wanted to be on it and we finally got our opportunity.It turned out to be a great and amazing experience!”

For Martin, it was winning a Stellar Award for the group’s first album.“I was incredibly grateful and humbled, like ‘Wow! Our first time out!’ You want to win, but it was a complete, exciting shock.That is my memorable moment.”

Based on comments from thousands of concertgoers, 21:03 gives a powerful, cutting-edge performance.Southern Californians can witness the group live on stage with recording artist, J Moss, on Saturday, August 28, at 4 p.m., at Antioch Church of Long Beach, 1535 Gundy in Long Beach.Tickets range from $25 to $50.

The Church is required to be transparent, fiscally accountable, and work together to manage God’s money. Too many churches fail to show members the money. But when the money is funny, then the begging starts. If you don’t want money to stop flowing to the church, then church leaders need to show members where the money is being spent in the church.

The pastor, deacons, stewards, trustees, ministry leaders, and pew warmers have a fiduciary responsibility of being transparent, accountable and working together to manage the church’s money. It’s time to show members the money.

Where is the money going? The IRS Tax Guide for Churches and Religious Organizations requires churches and religious organizations, like many other charitable organizations, to qualify for exemption from federal income tax under IRS section 501(c)(3) and are generally eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions.

One method to qualify for tax-exempt status is net earnings that may not inure to the benefit of any private individuals (i.e., pastor, deacon, etc.) and the organization’s purposes and activities may not be illegal or violate fundamental public policy. The Federal Government is one of the church’s greatest contributors.

Churches don’t pay income taxes on tithes and offerings! Therefore, the church benefits from not paying taxes. Does your church have an open book policy to show members the money?

The Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA) was signed on September 26, 2006. The intent is to empower every American with the ability to hold the government accountable for each spending decision. The end result is to reduce wasteful spending in the government.

President Barack Obama’s administration is committed to creating an unprecedented level of openness in government.President Obama works daily to ensure the public trust and establish a system of transparency, public participation and collaboration. Openness will strengthen our democracy and promote efficiency and effectiveness in government.

Yet, some churches fail to practice openness in church finances. The church should have nothing to hide. All members are welcome to see the record of fiscal contributions, expenses, properties and equipment owned by the church and the top church leaders’ compensation packages.

The church should have regularly scheduled meetings reporting on all incomes, expenses, and church properties. This would help end unnecessary spending and poor money management. What does the church have to hide? God will hold us all accountable at the end.

Over next the two weeks, we will articulate methods of church budgeting, financial reporting to the board and membership, and how to develop a plan to raise money from non-members.Remember, every member has a right to see the church books. Every member has a right to expect financial transparency, accountability, and the opportunity to see the money.

The Bible says in Roman 8:28 – “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

Three-time Grammy award-winner Dorinda Clark-Cole will be the special guest as First African Methodist Episcopal Church of Los Angeles (FAME) celebrates Black History Money with a black tie gala to support FAME’s Scholarship Fund.

The concert, entitled ‘Our Heritage in Sacred Music,’ will be held at FAME on Saturday, February 28, at 4 p.m. The church, under the leadership of Pastor J. Edgar Boyd, is located at 2270 South Harvard Boulevard in the historic West Adams District.

Ms. Clark-Cole will join FAME’s choirs as they present a variety of musical genres that include anthems, hymns, Negro spirituals, traditional and contemporary gospel, jazz and rap, written and/or arranged by African Americans.

FAME’s Music Department includes the Brookinaires Gospel Choir, under the direction of the renowned Dr. Henry Jackson; the Cathedral Choir, the city’s first African-American church choir, directed by Minister of Music Gregory Jones; the Unity Choir, well-known for its powerful and energetic contemporary and traditional gospel repertoire, along with the Men of FAME, both directed by Michael Curls; the Voices of Gospel Youth Choir, directed by Charles Lemle, and other special guests.

FAME’s choirs have appeared en masse at the Hollywood Bowl, Disney Concert Hall, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and Pantages Theater, among other venues.

The dynamic Walt ‘Baby Love’ will serve as master of ceremonies. Love hosts three syndicated radio programs, ‘Gospel Traxx,’ ‘The Countdown’ and ‘The Urban AC,’ heard by millions throughout the United States. He is also known to the FAME congregation as the Rev. Walt ‘Baby Love’ Shaw, where he is an associate minister.

Tickets and additional information for the black tie gala can be obtained on FAME’s website, famechurch.org or by calling the church office at (323) 735-1251.

An inspiring reenactment of great figures of the past highlighted the Black History service at Emmanuel Church of God in Christ.

The dramatic and musical presentation, held February 28, featured oratory and songs covering 100 years of African American life and culture.Actors and singers ranging from age 6 to 89 years told the stories of historical legends such as author and poet Langston Hughes, L.A. Sentinel founder Colonel Leon Washington, Jr., gospel artist Mahalia Jackson, Olympic medalist Jesse Owens and media mogul Oprah Winfrey.

Like the children of Israel, God tests and refines with fire to bring out the best in us like silver and gold [Ref: Zechariah 13:9]. If He did it to ‘the apple of His eye,’ who are we to expect otherwise?

Great things come out of hardship. Here’s the backdrop of two comparable defining moments in history that took America through hell and back again for the better.

Along with the influence of the church, I’ve come to view Motown music and the Civil Rights Movement as change agents in the 20th century, similarly to the Civil War and the Blackface art form in the 19th century. There were very significant milestones leading up to both moments in Black American history. When you really look at the timelines, there are some parallels.

For instance, historians’ record that the first shot fired that signaled the beginning of the Civil War was in 1861. It drew national attention. One hundred years later in 1961, Motown got its first number one pop hit with ‘Please Mr. Postman’ that also drew national attention and signaled a new era.

The Civil War had President Lincoln at the helm; the Civil Rights Movement had President Kennedy. Both were assassinated. Both had historical figures in their midst fighting for what they believed – General Lee Grant, General Robert E. Lee, Frederick Douglass and a host of others during Lincoln’s time; and Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Sheriff Eugene ‘Bull’ Connor, and Governor George Wallace along with a host of others during Kennedy’s time. All were faced with culture-changing challenges.

While the Civil War was drenched in deadly violence (think of Gettysburg) and the ground-shaking boom of cannon balls, the Civil Rights Movement was about non-violence, and the only ground-breaking/shaking boom (besides the Birmingham church bombing) was coming from the drum and bass in Motown’s Studio A.

During the Civil War, the Blackface Minstrel show, an imitation and often offensive exaggeration of Negro music, was popular, but just like Motown did 100 years later, the minstrel show allowed for cross-cultural collaboration and widespread appreciation of the Negro’s contribution to the arts. It was also considered to be the first distinctly American theatrical form.

As a tribute, re-enactments of Civil War battles are staged annually. In 1913, the first major Civil War veterans’ reunion took place. One hundred years later in 2013, Motown veterans were invited to a ‘Family Night’ preview of Berry Gordy’s ‘Motown: The Musical’ in New York.

At the 1913 reunion, President Woodrow Wilson said, “We have found one another again as brothers and comrades in arms, enemies no longer, generous friends rather, our battles long past, the quarrel forgotten, except that we shall not forget the splendid valor.”

The spirit and sentiment of his words could just as well been spoken by Gordy as together they all witnessed the re-enactment of the miracle that took place on Detroit’s West Grand Boulevard.

Love, Peace and Happiness Family Christian Fellowship Church presents a Healing and Deliverance Miracle Service on February 27 at 7 p.m., at 11022 Old River School Road in Downey, said Bishop Leon and Dr. Jacqueline Martin, senior pastors. Pastor Carlinda Lowery is the Intercessory Prayer president. The public is invited to attend.

Grant A.M.E. Church - Long Beach plans a Lenten Service on February 28 at 5 p.m., at 1129 Alamitos Avenue in Long Beach, said Pastor Michael Eagle.The Grant ministerial staff will preach sermons based on I Corinthians 1:18.All churches are welcome to participate. The Rev. Anna P. Lee is the program coordinator. Call (562) 437-1567 for details.

Greater Starlight Missionary Baptist Church hosts the Rev. Ronald Lewis in concert on February 28 at 5 p.m., at 8018 S. San Pedro St. in Los Angeles. The Grambling Gospel Music Workshop sponsors the event.Admission is free.

ABG Entertainment holds ‘Lyrical Therapy’ February 28 at 7 p.m., at 1144 Olive Ave. in Long Beach.Several artists will perform.Refreshments will be available. The public is invited to attend.

Skylight Theatrepresents the play, ‘Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea,’ on February 28 at 8 p.m., at 1816 1/2 N. Vermont Ave., in Los Angeles. The fundraiser is a community service project of the Zeta Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. Pastor James K. McKnight of Congregational Church of Christian Fellowship UCC will moderate a post-play discussion on improving relations between young black men and the police.

God’s House of Deliverance hosts gospel recording artist Markees Williams on March 1 at 3:30 p.m., at 9314 S. Western Ave., in Los Angeles. In Da House Music Group sponsors the program.Erroll Gillette and Cleo Gray will also perform.

Most people desire good health, but not everyone practices it.The Association of Black Women Physicians (ABWP) hopes to change that behavior by spreading a message of physical health and wellness.

Since its founding in 1982, ABWP has served the community through educational programs, mentorships, advocacy and philanthropic outreach.

“We have four signature programs,” explained Dr. Valencia Walker, ABWP president.“Our Wellness Series features workshops, offered in English and Spanish, designed to help people understand the ‘basics’ about health.

“The ABWP Speaker’s Bureau is available to organizations that request a physician expert to address health and medicine topics. Through the Sister-to-Sister Mentoring Program, our members counsel and advise high school, undergraduate and postgraduate students interested in health and science careers.

“Our main event is the Annual Charity and Scholarship Benefit Gala. This fundraising activity provides monies for scholarships to students and the community service programs we create and support,” said Walker.

As a result of their efforts, ABWP has awarded approximately $600,000 in financial aid to women of color studying to become doctors.In addition, the organization raised funds to enable the Jenesse Center Domestic Violence Intervention Program to complete their playground and library.

ABWP’s outreach extends to the faith community as well.Their ‘Second Sundays’ program, launched 10 years ago, unites with local congregations to discuss various health topics and respond to parishioners’ questions and concerns.

“We also partner with the First Ladies’ Health Initiative and Walgreens to support their annual health screening day held at local churches throughout Southern California,” added Walker, a member of Faithful Central Bible Church in Inglewood.

As for the future, Walker will seek to accomplish four goals as ABWP president. First on her list is developing partnerships with key community-based organizations serving people of color to increase the resources available to those in need.

“Also, we are seeking to raise $500,000 to establish a scholarship endowment for students pursuing careers in science and math, expand the membership of the organization to include chapters across the United States and the Caribbean Islands and create a publication and national exhibition on the achievements of Black women in medicine,” she said.

To learn how your church or organization can participate in ABWP’s programs, call (310) 321-8688.

The Rev. Dr. Cecil ‘Chip’ Murray will address the 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th Grade classes at Holy Name of Jesus School on Monday, February 23, as part of the school's Black History Month Celebration.

Dr. Murray, who recently joined the Board at Holy Name of Jesus School, is the John R. Tansey Chair of Christian Ethics in the School of Religion at the University of Southern California, a senior fellow of the Center for Religion and Civic Culture and chairs the USC Cecil Murray Center for CommunityEngagement.

During his 27 years as a pastor, Rev. Murray transformed a small congregation of 250 into an 18,000 – memberchurch with multi-million dollar community and economic development programs that brought jobs, housing, and corporate investment into many South Los Angeles neighborhoods.

This coming together of two faith traditions is viewed by many as a precedence setting event; an African-American, Evangelical Pastor speaking to a group of Catholic School children in a Catholic Church at a parochial school. But for the staff and students at Holy Name of Jesus, this coming together is not a surprise so much as a statement of faith.

“For me, ecumenism is a priority,” Pope Francis told Vatican Insider and Italian newspaper, La Stampa and Pope Francis' call is coming to life at this inner-city Catholic school.

“We are truly blessed to have Rev. Dr. Murray address our students," remarked School Principal Marva Belisle. “We may belong to different churches, but we are one in the spirit. We are very blessed to have him on our board.”

Holy Name of Jesus School is located at 1955 W. Jefferson Blvd., in Los Angeles.For information, call (323) 731-2255 or visit hnojla.org.

COR Community Development Corporation (CDC) will host President Valerie Ervin of the Ray Charles Foundation and President Mildred Garcia of California State University - Fullerton for a Super Sunday celebration of character building and academic excellence.

The event takes place on Sunday, February 22, at 10:30 a.m., at Christ Our Redeemer (COR) A.M.E. Church, 45 Tesla in Irvine, said Pastor Mark E. Whitlock, Jr., president and CEO of COR CDC.

“During the worship, COR CDC will formally announce a partnership between the Ray Charles Foundation and COR CDC that will result in a 14-week character building program entitled the ‘Ray Charles Fellows’. Simultaneously, President Garcia will announce the California State Universities passion for reaching students in underserved, underrepresented communities,” said Pastor Whitlock.

“This program will also feature civil rights legend Cecil ‘Chip’ Murray, past pastor of First African Methodist Episcopal Church, Los Angeles, and current president of USC’s Cecil Murray Center for Community Engagement.”

For the last six years, CSU has united with COR CDC to offer a six-week Summer Enrichment Academy featuring the Summer Algebra Institute for 35 minority middle-school students.

The inaugural 14-week program will start this June and end on August 30, at 10:30 a.m., at COR A.M.E. Church.The culmination ceremony will acknowledge the students’ improvement. Applications will be available on February 22.

“Many students of color, primarily African American and Hispanic, are matriculating through high school underperforming in core subjects and lacking skills to enter a four-year college institution. As a result, many of these students are predisposed to remedial courses, alternative schools, juvenile hall, or gangs. Our program, the Murray Enrichment Academy featuring Ray Charles Fellows, has the goal of combating this reality,” added the Rev. Dorsey.

Ward A.M.E. Church plans a prayer breakfast on February 21 at 8 a.m., at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel, 6101 Century Blvd., in Los Angeles. The theme is 'committed to Our Call to Prayer.' The guest speaker is the Rev. Dr. Frank Madison Reid III. For tickets, call Paula Freeman at (323) 418-1264 or email crystalady40@yahoo.ca.

Everlasting Life Church International hosts ‘Let’s Talk with Pastor Jacqueline Trammell’ on February 21 at 10 a.m., at 4455 W. 168th St., in Lawndale.Guest speakers will discuss wellness, beauty, and fashion. Psalmist Nesha Shanay will perform.The donation is $25 and includes brunch.For information, call (714) 574-7703.

Messiah Baptist Church salutes Pastor Perry and First Lady Pamela Jones for 17 years of service on February 22 at 10:30 a.m., at 4500 W. Adams Blvd., in Los Angeles. The theme is ‘Our Pastor, Appointed to Preach and Teach God’s Word’ based on II Timothy 1:11.Pastor Earl Stuckey of Progressive Missionary Baptist Church in Berkley, CA, will preach. For information, call (323) 734-7920.

Emmanuel Church of God in Christ holds its Black History Program on February 22 at 3 p.m., at 1399 E. 33rd St., in Los Angeles.The theme is ‘A Century of Black Life, History and Culture.’ Colonel Leon Washington, Sentinel founder, will be recognized.Patricia Ferguson and Perlisa Dorn are program coordinators. Call (323) 234-3633 for details.

People’s Independent Church of Christ presents the ‘Sunday Night Turn Up,’ a contemporary evening worship, on February 22 at 6 p.m., at 3856 West Blvd., in Los Angeles, said Bishop Craig A. Worsham, pastor. Breann Smith of The Key of David Ministries will speak. For information, call (323) 296-5776.

First A.M.E. Church sponsors ‘Our Heritage in Sacred Music,’ on February 28 at 4 p.m., at 2270 S. Harvard Blvd., in Los Angeles, said Pastor J. Edgar Boyd. Grammy award-winner Dorinda Clark-Cole will join FAME’s five choirs, with songs written and/or arranged by African Americans. Proceeds will support FAME’s Scholarship Fund. For tickets or information to the black-tie affair, visit famechurch.org or call (323) 735-1251.

Skylight Theatre presents the play, ‘Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea,’ on February 28 at 8 p.m., at 1816 1/2 N. Vermont Ave., in Los Angeles. The fundraiser is a community service project of the Zeta Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Pastor James K. McKnight of Congregational Church of Christian Fellowship UCC will moderate a post-play discussion on improving relations between young black men and the police.

God’s House of Deliverance hosts Markees Williams on March 1 at 3:30 p.m., at 9314 S. Western Ave., in Los Angeles. In Da House Music Group sponsors the program.Erroll Gillette and Cleo Gray will also perform.

Many churches and faith-based nonprofits are adding financial literacy to their outreach services.In addition to the traditional food and clothing distributions, these organizations offer classes on banking, budgeting, debt reduction, credit education and more for parishioners and community members.

COR CDC

As Pastor Mark Whitlock noted, “We believe that the church is more than a place of spiritual salvation. It must include financial salvation.We must be delivered from over-spending and under investing.”Whitlock, the spiritual leader of the 3,500-member Christ Our Redeemer (COR) A.M.E. Church, said, “We partner with banks and financial institutions to enlighten our members about debit and credit, savings and investments, and liabilities and expenses.”

COR provides a range of classes through its Community Development Corporation (COR CDC) headed by the Rev. Charles Dorsey who serves as executive director.

“Since late last year, we have been meeting with bankers, discussing how we can better empower the underserved and under privileged as it relates to financial literacy,” said Dorsey.

“Many people have big dreams and big goals, however, some of the foundational principles like creating a budget, writing a check, opening up a bank account, even dealing with some of the nuances that come along with educational and business opportunities, our communities are not as well-versed yet.”

To address the situation, COR CDC’s curriculum has sessions for all ages, from youth to adults. Topics include ‘How to Create a Budget,’ ‘How to Build Credit,’ ‘How to Fix Credit,’and ‘How to Manage the Extra Money You Have.’COR CDC also offers home-buying workshops and retirement planning.In addition, Dorsey is working with the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau to establish a call center to assist people with financial questions through answers or referrals.

“This summer, several banks are partnering with COR to launch a venture capital fund this summer that will invest in the businesses created by high school seniors and up,” added Whitlock.

For the past three years, the West Angeles CDC (WACDC) operated by West Angeles Christ of God in Christ has offered a free financial literacy program.

“We talk budgeting, savings, credit education,” said Noquomas Wilson, WACDC program manager. “This component is directly servicing a need in our community. We find that lot of people are in a state or panic that their finances are not where they want them to be or near what they should be for basic living conditions.

“We decided to teach them to get ahead of it.Also, our financial literacy program has an education piece for tens and pre-teens.After all, it is a learned behavior,” she said.

“We thought that by teaching this information, even if some people feel it’s a little too late, it will not only better the today’s generation, but the future generations as well.We offer these and other programs throughout the year to help create self-sufficiency.”

On February 19, WACDC will sponsor a free Individual Development Account (IDA) orientation.The class explains about IDAs, special savings accounts that match the deposits of low-to-moderate income people.

Online registration and more information are available at westangelescdc.org.Wilson can be reached at (323) 751-4450, extension 729.

Los Angeles Metropolitan Churches

Los Angeles Metropolitan Churches (LAMC) provides member churches with technical assistance and professional support to develop financial literacy curriculums.

According to Executive Director Cheryl Branch, the curriculums can cover sessions on understanding household budgeting, introduction to electronic banking, the importance of having a positive credit rating, and how to attain good financial literacy.

“LAMC's financial literacy talent mostly consists of retired financial analysts, bankers, entrepreneurs, and investors who want to give back to the community.

“They are also people of faith and may not have a particular church [of which] they are members, but [are] attracted to the faith-based community organizing model. Our instructors share lessons from basic financial concepts to planning for retirement.”

Stressing the importance of churches preparing people to be self-sufficient, Branch said, “LAMC is trying to help our members, comprised of small-to-midsize churches, teach their congregations basic knowledge about good money management.

“That’s part of selfsufficiency, knowing how to save, how to fund for the future, understanding interest, how to read a balance sheet, and how to create self-employment.If you’re in that low-income group, you are going to have to rely on your own ingenuity.”

Also, LAMC sponsors a twelve-week financial literacy circle that trains church leaders about administration and the group co-produces an online financial show, ‘Lunch With the Finance Bunch.’ The program broadcasts on Fridays at 12 noon on acceleratedradiopraise.net, LAMC’s radio station.

The popular play, ‘Under the Freeway,’ returns for one night only on Saturday, February 28, at 7 p.m., at the City of Refuge, 14527 South San Pedro Street in Gardena.

According to playwright/director/producer Brandi Burks, the musical production will feature actor Ernest Thomas in the role of Lee, an ex-pastor who falls on hard times and ends up ‘under the freeway.’

Thomas, who has 30 years of acting experience, is best known as ‘Raj’ in the 1970s television show, “What's Happening?” He also co-starred in the movie ‘Malcolm X’ and in the television comedy, ‘Everybody Hates Chris.’

“I’m grateful that God gifted me to speak about homelessness and hope people come out to see this play. Some people fall short due to drugs, alcohol, and mental disorders, but everyone doesn’t have to stay in this situation. There’s also talent under the freeway.

“I hope this play will lead people to take a second look at the homeless. We can all say where we’ve been, but we never know where we’ll end up.”

Music, dance and praise highlight ‘A Celebration of Black History’ sponsored by the Music Department of Price Chapel A.M.E. Church and Carlsbad Productions.

The program, set for Saturday, February 28, at 5 p.m., will be held at Dorsey High School, 3537 Farmdale Avenue in Los Angeles.The Rev. Benjamin Hollins is the host pastor and Brother Carl Johnson is the minister of music.

The performers include the Voices of Price, Price Chapel Praise Dancers, the Rev. Harold Johnson, and Jackie Gouchè.Also, drum ensembles will be featured along with other artists.

Pastor Melanie J. Mays and the members of Bethel A.M.E. Church in Monrovia will host a Unity Celebration on Saturday, February 21, to illustrate the harmony that exists between law enforcement and the community.

Monrovia Police Chaplain Terrance Brown will be recognized, said Pastor Mays, who added, “This dinner will showcase civic unity by honoring Chaplain Brown and we’ll hear an uplifting message from Rev. Copeland, the pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Church in San Bernadino.”

As a volunteer chaplain with the police department, Brown serves as the Chaplains for At-Risk Youth Coordinator and Monrovia Anti-Gang Intervention Committee Liaison.

The event will be held at the Monrovian Restaurant and Banquet Room, 534 South Myrtle Avenue in Monrovia.The ticket donation is $40.

Why is it, so it seems, that people who have lived their carnal lives to an extreme in one direction, tend to move all the way to the other extreme to seek salvation, exchanging one hard yoke for another?

For instance, I have seen many people who were so caught up into drugs, sex, various crimes and other addictive behaviors that held them captive, only to be ‘set free’ by some man-made doctrine that burdens them conversely with another hard yoke. They try to follow the doctrine to the letter in their new-found religion as if they are earning brownie points.

The abundant life that Jesus offers is stifled. Did the thief on the cross have time to go through some legalistic ritual? No! He confessed Jesus, and Jesus gave him the promise of paradise right there on the spot.

Those same people, when they encounter someone who is not following what they believe, will then tend to judge. Salvation is free; not earned. The Book of John [8:36 NIV] says, ‘So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.’ Romans 11:6 reads: ‘And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.’

Jesus said His yoke is easy and His burden is light. As believers in Christ, we are called upon to ‘work out our salvation’ which is our ‘reasonable service.’ God desires to fellowship with us. Isn’t it reasonable to spend time with the one who created us? How do we do that? By sacrificing our time and reading His Word, the Bible. We’re invited to an intimate relationship with Jesus – the Word who became flesh [Ref: John 1].

As I’ve written before, if you don’t bring your own sacrifice to the temple, you may be sold anything [Ref: John 2]. Read the word for yourself. We are God’s temple.

The church building is where we go to fellowship and encourage one another in the faith, and to hear God’s Word from those who are anointed to teach and preach. Within our own circle of influence, those of us who feed on the Gospel message and are able to impart it in love to others are, in fact, ministers.

Southern California Conference Lay Organization holds ‘Spring into Fashions’ runway show and luncheon on February 14 at 12 noon at Second A.M.E. Church, 5500 South Hoover Street in Los Angeles.Dr. Dorothy Vails-Weber is the Lay president and the Rev. John E. Cager III is the host pastor. Tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for youth, 12-years old and under.Call (626) 791-9618 for information.

St. James A.M.E. Church features the African American Inventors and Memorabilia Museum on February 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.,at 655 West 70th Street in Los Angeles, said Pastor Dwaine Jackson. The exhibit is open Feb. 16-20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Second Baptist Church welcomes the Rev. James Lawson as guest speaker on February 15 at 8 a.m., at 2412 South Griffith Avenue in Los Angeles, said Pastor William S. Epps. On February 18 at 7.p., Ash Wednesday service will be held. On February 20 at 7 p.m., the ‘Jazzy Fryday’ music series takes place with guests Pancho Williams and Bonnie Pearl. The donation, which includes dinner and entertainment, is $15 in advance and $18 at the door. For information, call (213) 748-0318.

New Hope Baptist Church and Lord Before Us Productions sponsor the Throwback Midnight Experience Choir Edition on February 15 at 10 p.m., at 5200 South Central Avenue in Los Angeles, said Pastor Larry Hooks III. Performers include Henry Jackson, Pastor Theo Wilkins and Sounds of Praise, ACTS Mime Ministry, and Spirit Truth Chorale.Call (323) 993-8581 for information.

WHW Ministries presents ‘Preaching is my Business,’ a preaching and teaching workshop and revival on February 17-19 at 8 a.m., at McCoy Memorial Baptist Church, 802 East 46th Street in Los Angeles, Dr. R. A. Williams, pastor and WHW president.Dr. Frank Ray, Sr., will speak on February 17 at 7 p.m. The workshop will focus on effectively teaching the Word of God.Registration is $99.To pre-register, call (888) 949-2378 or (323) 231-4271.

Agape Christian Fellowship begins a 10-week course on ‘Introduction to Biblical Greek’ on February 17 at 7:15 p.m., at 12700 S. Main Street in Los Angeles. The instructors are Dr. Edward Haygood, Pastor Willis Huffman and Minister Beverly Pye.The tuition is $30.Call (323) 757-0254 for details.

Ward A.M.E. Church plans a prayer breakfast on February 21 at 8 a.m., at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel, 6101 Century Boulevard in Los Angeles.The theme is ‘Recommitted To Our Call To Prayer.’ The guest speaker will be the Rev. Dr. Frank Madison Reid III. For tickets, call Paula Freeman at (323) 418-1264 or email crystalady40@yahoo.ca.

McCarty Memorial Christian Church hosts a Black History program on February 22 at 4 p.m., at 4101 West Adams Boulevard in Los Angeles.The event features music by harpist Radha Reyes accompanied by John M. Lehman. For information, call (323) 778-3002.

Non-traditional is one way to describe Elder Frank B. Jones' path to ministerial service. Currently, he serves as the pastor of Pentecostal Temple in Compton, but based on his history, few would have guessed that he would be in this position.

Pastor Jones’ career includes stints ranging from Air Force officer to flight instructor to airline pilot to Black Panther Party Deputy Minister of Information and editor of the Black Panther Newspaper.

“I have a very diverse background,” acknowledged ElderJones. “I earned eight Air Medals and an Air Force Commendation Medal for my service in Vietnam. After resigning from the Air Force, I was hired as a pilot with United Airlines, and two years later, I joined the Black Panther Party.”

Not surprisingly, his participation in the Black Panthers drew the attention of federal authorities.

“Although I wassubpoenaed to testify before the U.S. House of Representative's Committee on Un-American Activities and before a grand jury in San Francisco, I was never found guilty of anything, but I recently haveused the Freedom of Information Act to acquire 221 page of FBI documents about the FBI’s surveillance of me while I served as a Black Panther,” he said.

After leaving the group, Elder Jones remained with United as a pilotand became president of the United Airlines Black Caucus, an organization that advocated for increased hiring of African Americans, especially pilots. He also volunteered with the Office of Economic Opportunity, aU.S. governmentservice group. But, when he complained to superiors that the majority of funding was being allocated to administrators instead of those in need, he was no longer welcome to volunteer.

Because he was an admirer of Malcolm X, Elder Jones considered converting to the Muslim faith and recalled, “I went on a missionary trip to Guyana, South America, with a Muslim group from Pakistan, and while on that trip, I decided to become a Muslim.

“I was given the name of Faryd Aslum which I was told means, ‘the unique one who has found peace.’ But, I found that being a Muslim did not give me the peace I was seeking, so I stopped practicing Islam.”

Soon, he accepted an invitation to attend a friend’s church where he found the peace he sought.

“I began worshipping as a Christian and accepted my call into the Christian ministry. I also began a diligent study of the Bible, including the Greek and Hebrew languages.”

Now that he is a pastor, Elder Jones is committed to financial accountability and has become a staunch advocate for full financial disclosurefrom churches.

“I believe that the financial secrecy the government allows churches to maintain has attracted people into the ministry who use that secrecy to amass fortunes for themselves.These people are more interested in getting wealthy than they are in reaching out for souls that need to be saved or reaching out to help the poor,” he insisted.

“After the profits are removed from the pulpit, only the prophets will remain. The exploitation of many Black people has moved from the plantation to the pulpit. I will fight, with the sword of the Spirit, to end that exploitation.

The Southern California Conference of the A.M.E. Churchwill observe Founder’s Day in honor of Bishop Richard Allen on Sunday, February 8, at 4 p.m., at First A.M.E. Church, 2270 South Harvard Boulevard in Los Angeles.

The service commemorates Bishop Allen’s birthday, February 14, 1760, as well as the founding of the A.M.E. denomination of April 9, 1816.

“We invite the community to celebrate the legacy of America's oldest denomination founded by Blacks.Throughout its history, the A.M.E. Church has stood at the forefront of the struggle forsocial justice in the Christian context,” said Bishop T. Larry Kirkland, Sr., presiding prelate of the Fifth Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church

“Continuing that legacy, A.M.E. churches in Southern California currently work in the areas of homelessness eradication, the mass incarceration epidemic, combating gun violence, economic empowerment, affordable health care and other areas of common good.”

The Founder’s Day service, hosted by First A.M.E. Pastor J. Edgar Boyd, will feature sermonettes by the Rev. Mark Whitlock, the Rev. Joyce Reece Kitchen, the Rev. Dr. Clyde Oden and the Rev. Boyd. The Southern California Conference Choir, aided by choirs and singers from A.M.E. Churches in the area, will provide the music.

For information about the 2014 A.M.E. Church Founder’s Day Celebration, call the Southern California Conference Ministerial Alliance at (323) 753-2451 or First A.M.E. Church at (323) 730-9180.

Pastor David Cross will deliver a new sermon series, ‘Finding & Keeping True Love,’ on Sunday, February 8, at 8:45 a.m., and 11 a.m., at The Liberty Church, 14725 South Gramercy Place in Gardena.

“Don’t miss the opportunity to find out what ‘true love’ really means.It will definitely be life- changing information. Also, special music will be presented by our psalmist, Minister ‘Lady Rose’ Neale,” said Pastor Cross.

The service will include distribution of free CDs.Single people will receive ‘The Secret to Being Happily Unmarried’ and couples will be given ‘The Secret to Communicating with Your Mate.’

New Antioch Church of God in Christ will celebrate its 45th Anniversary on Sunday, February 8, at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., in the edifice located at 7826 South Vermont Avenue in Los Angeles.

The theme is ‘God First - His Will, His Word, His Way’ based on Matthew 6:33. Superintendent Jeffrey and First Lady Floetta Lewis serve as spiritual leaders.

The keynote speaker will be Pastor Vernon Kemp of Greater Harvest Christian Center Church of God in Christ in Bakersfield. The New Antioch Choir and Praise and Worship Team will minister in songs at both services.

“All are invited to fellowship with us during these services as we reflect on the heritage of New Antioch and celebrate the legacy as it continues to move forward,” said Pastor Lewis.

“New Antioch is a thriving and progressive church that meets the needs of its members and the surrounding community through spirit-filled services, prayer and bible study sessions, education and advancement opportunities, as well as various community outreach programs.”

The church originated out of the home of the founding pastor, Bishop James A. Lewis, and his wife, Dr. Barbara McCoo Lewis, along with five other people in January 1970.The first official service was held on February 1, 1970.

In January 2006, Superintendent Lewis was appointed senior pastor.He and First Lady Lewis continue to carry the legacy and commitment of serving the community through ministry and the passion for winning souls for Christ. Live webcasts of Pastor Lewis’ teaching of God’s word airs online on Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 8 a.m., and 11 a.m., at newantiochlive.com.

Miracle Temple Church of God Pentecostal welcomes InternationalEvangelist Jeremy McDonaldon February 5-6 at 7p.m., and February 8 at10:15 a.m., at733 South Grevilla Avenue in Inglewood, said Bishop Johnny Young, pastor.The public is invited to attend.

Bethel C.M.E. Church holds the LA-LASD Districts Usher Fellowship Service on February 8 at 4 p.m., at 1953 Martin Luther King, Jr., Avenue in Long Beach.The Rev. Napoleon Goshay is the host pastor and keynote speaker.

Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church kicks-off the 9th anniversary celebration of Pastor E.V. Hill II on February 8 at 6 p.m., at 1300 East 50th Street in Los Angeles.Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer will preach. Other guests include Pastor A.D. Iverson on February 15 and Pastor Mark Murchison on February 22. The annual musical is set for March 1.For details, call (323) 235-2103.

African American Catholic Center for Evangelism and Loyola Marymount University plan a forum on ‘American Catholicism in the Civil Rights Movement’ on February 14 and February 28 at 9:30 a.m., at Loyola, 1 LMU Drive in Los Angeles. The speaker will be Dr. Cecilia Moore, professor of Religious Studies at the University of Dayton in Ohio. Registration is $40. Call (310) 338-1971 for details.

New Hope Baptist Church and Lord Before Us Productions sponsor the Throwback Midnight Experience Choir Edition on February 15 at 10 p.m., at 5200 South Central Avenue in Los Angeles, said Pastor Larry Hooks III. Performers include Henry Jackson, Pastor Theo Wilkins and Sounds of Praise, ACTS Mime Ministry, and the Spirit Truth Chorale.Call (323) 993-8581 for information.

WHW Ministries presents ‘Preaching is my Business,’ a preaching and teaching workshop and revival on February 17-19 at 8 a.m., at McCoy Memorial Baptist Church, 802 East 46th Street in Los Angeles, said Dr. R. A. Williams, pastor and WHW president.Dr. Frank Ray, Sr., will speak on February 17 at 7 p.m. The workshop will focus on effectively teaching the Word of God.Registration is $99.To pre-register, call (888) 949-2378 or (323) 231-4271.

Bethel A.M.E. Church hosts the Francine Brookins for Bishop Campaign Shoe Collection Drive on February 21, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at, 16262 Baseline Avenue in Fontana. The public is invited to donate gently worn, used or new shoes to help those who are less fortunate.

Emmanuel Church of God in Christ plans its Black History Program on February 22 at 3 p.m., at 1399 East 33rd Street in Los Angeles.The theme is ‘A Century of Black Life, History and Culture.’ Colonel Leon Washington, Sentinel founder, will be recognized.Patricia Ferguson and Perlisa Dorn are the program coordinators.

On Wednesday, January 21, at West Angeles Church of God in Christ, the best psalmists and worshippers in the world gathered together, lifting their voices to celebrate the life of gospel great Andraé Crouch.It was the perfect sendoff for a man who, by all accounts, is considered the father of modern gospel music.

Although he was known around the world, Crouch was hailed as a man who would interact with all people anytime, and anywhere.“He was the greatest psalmist and worshipper this side of heaven,” said Pastor La Vern Moore, of New Christ Memorial Church.

“You are looking at sons and daughters who stand here because of the anointing that rested on this great man’s life,” said gospel minister Donnie McClurkin.

As expected, the service was a musical extravaganza.Bishop Kenneth Ulmer of Faithful Central Bible Church officiated the service and reminded those in attendance that they were witnessing a “snapshot in history.”

From the moment artist and close friend, Kurt Carr, led the Andraé Crouch Tribute Choir in ‘Bless the Lord, you knew this was no ordinary service, but a homegoing rooted and grounded in love for a pastor, a brother, and friend.

“I don’t know how to say thank you for the love and doors that you opened for my family,” said soloist BeBe Winans.Edwin and Lynette Hawkins remembered Crouch as an evangelist first who witnessed and led countless others to Christ.

“Gospel music is so rich and wealthy because of his incredible gift,” said CeCe Winans before performing the Crouch penned song, ‘I’ll Be Thinking of You,’ with Kristle Murden and Stevie Wonder on harmonica.

Wonder who played on the original recording said he was honored “to be able to do this song again and celebrate his life.He blessed me as a friend.”

Pastor and gospel great Shirley Caesar in remembering Crouch said, “Andraé did not write nonsensical songs like Jesus will never say no.That’s a lie.If you don’t believe it, you ask Him for somebody’s husband…somebody’s wife.

“He wrote songs with power in it. I cannot imagine this planet or Los Angeles without Andraé Crouch because he was such a blessing.”

Sandra Crouch, the twin sister of Crouch and his co-castor of New Christ Memorial Church in Pacoima, spoke of his musical genius at an early age and the love for her older brother, telling the crowd, “My twin was born 30 minutes before me and was therefore my opening act.”

Pastor Crouch recounted how difficult it was to let Andraé go.“The Lord gave me four days to get ready and said he’s suffered long enough and I want him here with me.”

Pastor Marvin Winans of Perfecting Church in Detroit, MI eulogized Crouch through songs and words, leading the all-star singers and audience in one of Crouch’s best-loved songs, ‘Let the Church Say Amen,’ as the casket was escorted to its final resting place.

“Andraé preached Jesus and we can’t end this service without giving others the opportunity to receive Jesus as this was Andraé’s work,” Winans said.“We thank you for the life and times of Pastor Andraé Edward Crouch.Let the Church say Amen.”

People seeking to start 2015 with a fresh approach will enjoy a free event sponsored by the Forever Young Ministry of Crenshaw United Methodist Church.

The program, ‘Dedication to Hope, Health and Healing: A New Year, A New You,’ takes place on Saturday, January 31, from 9 a.m. to 1:45 p.m., at Crenshaw UMC, 3740 Don Felipe Drive in Los Angeles.The Rev. Royce Porter is the host pastor.

Outlining the event’s purpose, a spokesperson explained, “This will be a time of praise, prayer and the start of a healthy journey into the new year. It’s an opportunity for people to go beyond the usual resolutions and make a step-by-step commitment to a journey to spiritual, physical and mental health.

“The Rev. Cavalain Hawkins of Hollypark United Methodist Church will bring an encouraging message of hope and healing. Surgical Oncologist, Dr. Rebecca Alleyne, will discuss measures to prevent and treat breast cancer.

“Ms. Brenda Naulls-Wilmore of the African American Health Initiative will cover prevention and management of diabetes,and Valerie Alleyne Udeozor, RN, MSN, and the Pasadena City College Nursing faculty will presenta dramaticskit on the prevention of hypertension, heart disease and stroke.”

The agenda includes music, praise dancing, prayer and refreshments.Also, instructors will give lessons on tai chi and yoga exercises.Attendees are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing.